LATROBE, PENNSYLVANIA – Spirit Airlines is the sole commercial carrier serving Arnold Palmer Regional Airport, and its potential collapse would be devastating for the airport, according to Gabe Monzo, the airport’s executive director. The airline has reduced its schedule at LBE from multiple daily flights to only one direct flight to Orlando. However, Monzo is optimistic that service will resume to Myrtle Beach in the coming spring.

A 2022 study by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation estimated that the regional economic impact of passengers arriving and departing from LBE is $213.9 million, with $100 million of that coming from Spirit Airlines travelers. This underscores the significance of Spirit’s presence at the airport.

Spirit Airlines caters to leisure travelers, college students, and missionaries seeking low-cost, no-frills fares. Professor Jase Ramsey from Florida Gulf Coast University utilizes Spirit for family vacations and incorporates the airline into his courses for academic purposes.

From a tourism perspective, Spirit Airlines is vital for South Florida, providing affordable vacation options for families in the region. Its absence would likely result in increased travel costs and limited vacation choices for South Florida families.

Despite its importance to certain demographics, Spirit Airlines faces challenges due to its low-cost business model. The airline serves offbeat destinations and offers budget-friendly options for travelers. However, competing with buses and trains, in addition to other airlines, presents difficulties for maintaining profitability.

However, Monzo, the airport director in Latrobe, remains hopeful that Spirit Airlines will continue its operations and keep the airport viable. Regardless of the airline’s fate, the airport is committed to persevering and serving its passengers.